Free things to do this weekend ft. Jenny Eden, Christmas Lights + more

Jenny Eden Exhibition at Portico Library
Abstract artist Jenny Eden presents her new show Painting With Content, under the grand done of the Portico Library. Formerly based in York, Eden creates her angular, pastel-coloured paintings by hand, using none of the masking tape lines favoured by her corner-cutting contemporaries. This is an interesting little exhibition in one of the city’s best hidden art spaces, and it runs until the end of the month.
Mon 2 Nov – Mon 30 Nov, Portico Library, 57 Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3HY, Tel: 0161 236 6785, 11am – 3pm, www.theportico.org.uk

Christmas Lights Switch On in Albert Square
It may seem a little early, but it’s that time of year again: time for the Christmas lights to go up in the city centre. This year’s switch-on spectacular features live performances from Lemar from Fame Academy and Lucy O’Byrne from The Voice. Can’t get on board with the reality stars? There’s also a turn from Scouting For Girls, who you may remember from their song She’s So Lovely, provided you’re old enough to remember 2007 properly. But music’s only part of the experience and really this is about the seasonal spectacle and seeing them fresh bulbs beam, getting you into the Christmas spirit. After all, there’s only 51 shopping days left til Christmas. Check out our full preview for further details.
Sat 7 Nov, Albert Square, Manchester, M2 4JW. www,manchester.gov.uk

David Stanier at the King’s Arms (pictured)
Prince of daft comedy David Stanier brings his Silly Party back to the Kings Arms. Stanier does weird, offbeat jokes in his patented naive schoolboy style. It’s not just your regular stand-up gig: there’s party games, party poppers, sweets and all other kinds of silly fun as he prepares the show for next year’s Edinburgh Fringe. What better way to spend a cold evening than in one of Salford’s best pubs, in the company of Manchester’s most life-affirming comic?
Sat 7 Nov, King’s Arms, Bloom St, Salford, M3 6AN. 7.30pm – 8.30pm, www.greatermanchesterfringe.co.uk

Makers Market in Stevenson Square
This touring market makes its monthly stop in the Northern Quarter on Sunday. Expect all manner of artisan and handcrafted treats – from food to fashion – as a roster of independent traders will be plying their wares in Stevenson Square. For further details on what’s in store, take a look at our full preview of the markets.
Sun 8 Nov, Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DN. 11am – 5pm, www.themakersmarket.co.uk